THE GLOBAL WINDOW OF TURKISH FOOD AND AGRICULTURE The Global Window of Turkish Food and Agriculture Sector
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Press release…
Sebahattin Arslantürk, Vice Chairman of the Hazelnut and Hazelnut Products Sector Committee of the Eastern Black Sea Exporters’ Association (DKİB), made striking statements regarding the measures to be taken by stating that hazelnut farming in Türkiye has given S.O.S. despite the spike in exports.
Indicating that hazelnut production in Türkiye is facing a major crisis due to various factors such as climate change, insect infestations, rising production costs and improper agricultural practices, Arslantürk said, “Currently, hazelnut production in the country has dropped to an average of 90 kilograms per decare and even lower in certain regions. The main hazelnut production region, the Eastern Black Sea region, may soon have to abandon production altogether if the decline continues. This would result in Turkey’s share of world production dropping from over 80% to around 50%.”
“To address this issue, it is crucial to take radical and systematic measures. One important step is to consolidate hazelnut production, which is currently hindered by the division of gardens due to inheritance. Changing inheritance laws and creating a producer structure that supports hazelnut production are necessary. Incentives should also be provided to attract the younger generation to engage in hazelnut agriculture. Additionally, hazelnut producers need to be professionalized and encouraged to maintain their gardens throughout the year,” he noted.
“It is important to raise awareness among producers, promote mechanization, and encourage the use of suitable hazelnut varieties to increase yield. Quality-focused incentive models, along with effective agricultural practices and mechanization, should be employed. There is a need to inventory hazelnut orchards, conduct yield studies, implement climate risk management strategies, and enhance measures against invasive insects.”
Pointing out that furthermore, expanding licensed warehousing and product specialization exchange can ensure proper storage and balanced market conditions, he added, “It is crucial to establish a permanent and sustainable hazelnut policy, fully utilize the country’s potential in hazelnut production and strive for the highest possible share of global production and trade.”
“Failing to take prompt action to address these challenges will have severe consequences for the future of hazelnut production in Türkiye. It is vital for both the public and private sectors to come together and play their part to prevent the decline in this important sector. The future of agriculture and trade in hazelnuts hinges on effective and immediate action to secure the longevity and prosperity of the industry,” he concluded…
